[2][3] The chain operates as a symbol group owned by Musgrave Group, the food wholesaler, meaning the individual shops are all owned by individual franchisees.

[4] The chain has three different formats available to franchisees—smaller Quick Stop outlets, mid-sized Foodmarkets, and larger Supermarkets.

[9] Centra's main competitors are Gala, Spar and Londis, as well as a number of smaller groups such as Costcutter.

The company brought both of these brands to Northern Ireland, the latter through the acquisition and subsequent rebranding of Wellworths shops.

[12] The business employs over 11,000 people and serves over three million customers per week.